Sunset Foxglove is a striking perennial that brings warm, glowing color to spring and early summer gardens, thriving in hardiness zones 5 and reaching a compact 18 to 24 inches tall. This cultivar of Digitalis obscura combines the classic elegance of foxgloves with exceptional resilience, tolerating drought once established and shrugging off deer browsing. It blooms from March through August in full sun, attracting pollinators while asking for only moderate water and minimal fussing, making it a sophisticated choice for gardeners seeking reliable color without constant maintenance.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
5-5
24in H x 18in W
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High
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Sunset Foxglove seeds require light to germinate and can sprout in as little as 7 days, making it one of the quickest foxgloves to grow from seed. The compact 18 to 24 inch height works beautifully in borders and containers where taller varieties might overwhelm, and its drought tolerance means once established, it thrives on the sidelines without coddling. Deer leave it alone entirely, and pollinators find it irresistible during its long blooming window from spring through summer.
Sunset Foxglove serves as a spring and early summer focal point in flower beds and borders, drawing butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden. Its compact stature makes it well suited to container growing and rock gardens, where its upright form adds vertical interest without dominating the space. The long bloom season from March through August extends its usefulness across seasons.
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Start seeds indoors 10 to 12 weeks before your last spring frost. Sow onto a germinating mix, then sprinkle lightly with vermiculite or use a humidity dome to keep moisture consistent. Maintain temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds typically sprout within 7 to 30 days.
After your last spring frost has passed, harden off seedlings gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions over several days, then transplant to full sun locations with prepared soil.
Direct sow on the soil surface in full sun after the last spring frost through early summer, pressing seeds in lightly and keeping the area moist until germination occurs.
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